Before we dive into stuff and such, what do I mean by “spiritual legacy?” Google’s AI defines it as: “the lasting influence of one’s faith, values, and actions on others, particularly future generations. It encompasses the teachings, wisdom, and example one leaves behind, shaping the spiritual lives of those they impact.” I’m impressed with that clear definition! I’ve been pondering what my spiritual legacy might be and wondering if the stuff I leave behind could damage it.

As I continue my ongoing task of preparing for eventual downsizing, my concept of the value of things is changing. I’ve decided that stuff is just stuff. How is that for a profound insight? Ultimately, what is the value of my possessions? I am not a hoarder, although I do have too many things I might need someday, and I also don’t advocate for a minimalist lifestyle. However, the time has come to clear the clutter, so the purging continues.

When we no longer need earthly goods, will our children even want our “treasures?” As my widowed mother prepared to move into a retirement home, she wanted each of her possessions, including the bits from the junk drawer, to find a home. Family members already had their own belongings, so they rejected even many of the lovely things. When a friend’s elderly mother went into care, she asked her daughter to deliver the last two homemade pickles in the fridge to an equally elderly friend living across the city. Is our stuff really as meaningful to others as it is to us?

Now, most of the personal property my parents once held dear is gone (as are the contents of the junk drawer!). We have kept some special items, and they all serve a dual purpose. In addition to their intended use, they jog memories. Memories of times shared and lessons taught both verbally and through lived experiences. And memories of their talents, hard work, and faith.

As I endeavour to spare my children the task of dealing with decades of accumulated possessions, I’m mindful of the memories of closing the chapter on the previous generation’s belongings. Eventually, all our kids will keep are our death certificates and a few items they value (which may differ from what we prize). That’s it.

My greatest hope is that the memories of me that they hold dear are of a mother and grandmother who loved Jesus with her whole heart and endeavoured to reflect that in her life. I pray that image isn’t clouded or obscured by leaving them an overwhelming task of dealing with excessive stuff. I don’t want my spiritual legacy tarnished by the exhaustion or even anger that might come with disposing of the miscellanea that I should have. After all, it’s only stuff.

So, to answer the question posed in the title, yes, I think stuff can negatively impact our spiritual legacy. But if we’re responsible, it doesn’t need to.

What is the spiritual legacy you’re leaving? Will the stuff you leave behind undermine that legacy? If you’re older, take a hard look and adjust your course, if necessary, which may include seeking help with the decluttering or downsizing process. If you’re young, don’t be fooled into thinking it’s only a concern for people nearing the finish line. We live in a culture that bombards us with messages telling us we need more and better everything. Stuff isn’t necessarily bad, but let’s be responsible with it and honour God in all areas of our lives. May we bring glory to Him with all that we have and do. 

“And whatever you do or say, let it be as a representative of the Lord Jesus, and come with him into the presence of God the Father to give him your thanks.”

Colossians 3:17 (The Living Bible)

It’s kind of you to read this. Thank you.